It's All About Survival

Chapter 13

One morning, I was scrolling through Instagram on my way to school and there was a post on sexual assault. It triggered a panic attack in me and I honestly don't know how I managed to function well enough to get to the cafeteria. It was honestly all a blur. Tiff saw me and she was instantly worried. I showed her the post and she put 2 and 2 together. She simply took me to the bathroom and comforted me. She told me if it was affecting me that badly, it was a sign to talk to somebody. I knew she was right. This was no way to live.

My English teacher saw me as she walked in she was instantly worried. Mrs. Williams is an incredible woman. She talked to me and I felt comfortable enough to talk to her about it. She listened to me and she was there for me. She was there for me. With my permission, she sent an email to the school psychologist, Ms. Vicki, the lady in charge of our section, and Ms. Anita, a disciplinarian. Honestly, Ms. Anita intimidated me, she had been to our class several times to chew us out and she seemed like a no-nonsense type of woman. She was incredibly sweet all through. Mrs. Williams gave me a late pass and I headed to class when she was done with the email.

I eventually started meeting with Natalie, the psychologist, almost every English and Science period. I was always there then because those were classes I didn't need help in. Mrs. Williams always knew and she never stopped supporting me. I honestly appreciate her. One thing led to another and that led me to talking to Officer Bridget. I told her my story and she took my statement. I didn't want to press charges because I knew it was my word against his. Especially since I came forward so late, there was no evidence that assault ever happened.

For the first time in a year, I felt like it really wasn't my fault. I didn't deserve what happened to me. I deserved better. Officer Bridget thanked me for my willingness to come forward. She assured me that I was doing the right thing. She was proud of me. Every time I told this story, I always ended up crying. This was no exception. I thanked Natalie and Officer Bridget and I went to the bathroom and fixed myself. I was ready to face my peers again like nothing had happened.

Richard and Remy were there in our locker room with Vic and when they saw me. Remy asked if I was okay and wondered why I was called to Natalie's. I simply said it was nothing to worry about and I was fine. I could tell there was genuine concern there. I silently thanked God for the friends he put in my path. I looked around my eyes fell on Vic. Hmm, I never noticed this before but Vic is bout fine as hell... I thought to myself. I looked away before he realized that I was staring at him.